Best Flowers to Attract Bees

Bees are an essential part of our ecosystem, as they play a crucial role in pollinating plants that produce food we eat. Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining due to habitat loss and pesticide use. One way to help these important pollinators is by planting flowers that attract them. In this blog post, we'll explore the best flowers to attract bees, so you can create a beautiful garden that also helps support healthy bee populations.

Why Are Bees Important?

Before we dive into the best flowers to attract bees, let's take a moment to understand why bees are so important. Bees are responsible for pollinating many of the crops that make up our diets, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Without bees, these plants would not be able to reproduce, leading to a significant decrease in food production. In addition, bees also play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, as they pollinate wildflowers and other plants that provide habitats for other animals.

Top 15 Flowers to Attract Bees

1. Lavender

Lavender is a popular flower that is loved by both humans and bees. Its sweet fragrance and purple color make it a great addition to any garden. Bees are attracted to lavender because of its high nectar content, which provides them with plenty of energy. In addition, lavender is easy to grow and requires little maintenance.

How to Grow Lavender

Lavender prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Make sure to plant it in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water it regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as lavender prefers dryer soil. Prune the plant after it has finished blooming to encourage new growth.

2. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are another great flower to attract bees. Their large, bright blooms provide plenty of nectar and pollen for bees to feed on. In addition, sunflowers are easy to grow and can add a pop of color to any garden.

How to Grow Sunflowers

Sunflowers prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives full sun for most of the day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Support the tall stalks with stakes if necessary.

3. Cosmos

Cosmos is a beautiful flower that blooms in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and purple. Bees are attracted to cosmos because of its high nectar content. In addition, cosmos is easy to grow and can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions.

How to Grow Cosmos

Cosmos prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

4. Bee Balm

As its name suggests, bee balm is a great flower for attracting bees. Its bright red, pink, or purple flowers provide plenty of nectar and pollen for bees to feed on. In addition, bee balm is easy to grow and can add a splash of color to any garden.

How to Grow Bee Balm

Bee balm prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives full sun or partial shade. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

5. Black-Eyed Susan

Black-eyed susans are a type of daisy that blooms in bright yellow or orange colors. Bees are attracted to black-eyed susans because of their high nectar content. In addition, these flowers are easy to grow and can add a cheerful touch to any garden.

How to Grow Black-Eyed Susan

Black-eyed susans prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives full sun for most of the day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

6. Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular flower that comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. Bees are attracted to marigolds because of their high nectar content. In addition, marigolds are easy to grow and can help repel pests from your garden.

How to Grow Marigolds

Marigolds prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives full sun for most of the day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

7. Zinnias

Zinnias are a beautiful flower that blooms in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and yellow. Bees are attracted to zinnias because of their high nectar content. In addition, zinnias are easy to grow and can add a burst of color to any garden.

How to Grow Zinnias

Zinnias prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

8. Coneflowers

Coneflowers are a type of daisy that blooms in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white. Bees are attracted to coneflowers because of their high nectar content. In addition, coneflowers are easy to grow and can provide food for birds in addition to bees.

How to Grow Coneflowers

Coneflowers prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

9. Salvia

Salvia is a popular flower that comes in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, and red. Bees are attracted to salvia because of its high nectar content. In addition, salvia is easy to grow and can provide a pop of color to any garden.

How to Grow Salvia

Salvia prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

10. Wildflowers

Wildflowers are a great option for attracting bees, as they provide a diverse range of nectar and pollen sources. In addition, wildflowers can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions and require little maintenance.

How to Grow Wildflowers

To grow wildflowers, simply scatter seeds in an area with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Water them regularly until they become established, then allow them to grow on their own. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

11. Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle is a fragrant flower that blooms in a variety of colors, including pink, yellow, and white. Bees are attracted to honeysuckle because of its high nectar content. In addition, honeysuckle can add a beautiful touch to any garden.

How to Grow Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives full sun or partial shade. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Train the vines to climb up a trellis or fence for support.

12. Milkweed

Milkweed is a unique flower that is essential for monarch butterflies, as it is the only plant where they lay their eggs. Bees are also attracted to milkweed because of its high nectar content. In addition, milkweed is easy to grow and can help support healthy butterfly populations.

How to Grow Milkweed

Milkweed prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

13. Phlox

Phlox is a fragrant flower that blooms in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white. Bees are attracted to phlox because of its high nectar content. In addition, phlox can add a delightful touch to any garden.

How to Grow Phlox

Phlox prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Deadhead the flowers after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.

14. Sage

Sage is an herb that also produces beautiful flowers that are loved by bees. Its high nectar content makes it a great choice for attracting these important pollinators. In addition, sage is easy to grow and can provide a tasty addition to your meals.

How to Grow Sage

Sage prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Harvest the leaves as needed for cooking.

15. Roses

Roses are a classic flower that comes in a variety of colors, including red, pink, and white. Bees are attracted to roses because of their high nectar content. In addition, roses can add a touch of elegance to any garden.

How to Grow Roses

Roses prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Prune the plants after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth.


By planting these top 15 flowers to attract bees, you can create a beautiful garden that also helps support healthy bee populations. Remember to choose a variety of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the year to provide a consistent source of food for bees. With a little effort, you can transform your garden into a buzzing paradise for these important pollinators.

FAQs

1. How do I know if bees are attracted to a particular flower?

Bees are attracted to flowers with brightly colored petals, a sweet fragrance, and a high nectar content. Look for flowers that meet these criteria when choosing which flowers to plant in your garden.

2. Can I grow these flowers in containers?

Yes, many of these flowers can be grown in containers as long as they receive enough sunlight and water. Make sure to choose a container with good drainage and use high-quality potting soil.

3. How often should I water these flowers?

Most of these flowers prefer regular watering, but be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Water them whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.

4. Are there any pesticides I should avoid using on these flowers?

Avoid using pesticides that contain neonicotinoids, as these chemicals are toxic to bees. Instead, try using natural pest control methods like companion planting or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.

5. How can I attract bees to my garden if I don't have space for flowers?

Consider installing a bee hotel or nesting box in your yard to provide a habitat for bees. You can also create a small water source like a bird bath or shallow dish filled with rocks and water for bees to drink from.